EuroBasket 2025: Slovenia advances to quarter-finals
Slovenia have booked their place in the EuroBasket quarter-finals after a 84:77 victory over Italy on 7 September. NBA superstar Luka Dončić was unstoppable, racking up 42 points and 10 rebounds in 33 minutes to lead his side past a tough Italian challenge.
From the outset, Dončić set the tone, dropping 22 points in the first quarter alone, propelling Slovenia to a commanding 29:11 lead, CE Report quotes The Slovenia Times.
As the game unfolded, Italy began chipping away at the advantage, but Dončić remained composed, extending his impact with timely baskets steady free throws.
Italy mounted a tense comeback, pulling within a single point late in the game, but Slovenia weathered the storm. Dončić had a steady hand in consecutive free throws in the closing moments, ensuring the win.
Dončić's fourth 30-plus points game at the EuroBasket 2025 marked Slovenia's fourth straight victory at the tournament and means the team has advanced to the quarter-finals in eight of the past nine EuroBaskets.
Coach Aleksander Sekulić praised the team's performance:
"We knew that Italy is a very good team, one of the best at this championship. The good start was very important."
Dončić highlighted the team performance as well.
"We're a true team, everyone plays for everyone. The feeling is good, the chemistry is great and everyone wants to help out on court. Hats off to the guys," he said.
Slovenia now faces a formidable opponent, reigning world champions Germany, with whom they played two games in the pre-tournament warm-ups - and lost both.
Sekulić acknowledged the challenge, but also highlighted the momentum his team carries into the match-up.
"We know Germany well ... They have excellent individuals and after Serbia is out they are the top favourites for the medal. But we are improving with each game too. I'm sure this will be an interesting duel."
Dončić is confident of success. "We face a very difficult game against Germany, but as I said before, we believe in ourselves."
